In the fall of 2010, the Taganrog Automobile Plant started mass production of the Vortex Tingo compact crossover, which is a "licensed" copy of the budget Chinese SUV Chery Tiggo. The conveyor life of the car continued until 2014, after which it came to an end due to the difficult financial situation at the Russian TagAZ enterprise.
Outwardly, Vortex Tingo looks very attractive and modern, especially against the background of most other "state employees". The car demonstrates the classic crossover shape with asymmetric "influx" of wheel arches and a flat roof line, off-road which adds a "spare wheel" suspended on the tailgate. Its original "face" is decorated with large headlights and a chrome-plated "shield" of the radiator grille, and a monumental stern - a huge trunk lid and lampshades nestled along the edges.
The length of the "Tingo" is 4285 mm, and its width and height, respectively, are 1765 mm and 1715 mm. The wheelbase of the SUV does not exceed 2510 mm, and the clearance under the bottom fits into 190 mm. In running order, the car weighs 1465 kg.
The interior of the Vortex Tingo is subject to the concept of discreet minimalism - there are no frills to be found in it, but everything you need is available. True, the low quality of finishing materials and the negligence of execution upsets. The round dials of the dashboard, placed on a white background, are nice and easy to read, the three-spoke steering wheel is multifunctional, and the center console, resembling a soap box in shape, carries a two-din radio and three climate control switches.
In front of the Tingo cabin there are comfortable chairs with sufficient adjustment ranges, moderately soft filler and poorly developed side support rollers. The rear sofa is designed to carry three passengers, and for greater convenience it is adjusted in the longitudinal direction and inclination of the back.
In addition to five people, Vortex Tingo is able to take on board up to 424 liters of luggage. The "gallery" is transformed into two unequal parts (in the ratio of 60:40), increasing the useful volume of the "hold" to 790 liters, and a full-fledged spare wheel is suspended on the trunk lid to save space.
Specifications. In the engine compartment of the Tingo there is a non-alternative gasoline engine - this is an atmospheric "four" with a volume of 1.8 liters (1845 cubic centimeters) with an in-line configuration, a 16-valve timing and distributed fuel supply technology. The performance of the motor is 132 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 170 Nm of torque at 4300-4500 rpm, and in combination with it, a 5-speed "mechanics" or a 5-band "robot" and a front-wheel drive transmission (all-wheel drive for no crossover).
The “manual” Vortex Tingo reaches a maximum of 175 km / h and accelerates from standstill to the first “hundred” after 12.5 seconds, but the “robotic” version is inferior to it at 5 km / h and 0.5 seconds, respectively. In combined driving conditions, for every 100 km, the car consumes from 7 to 8.5 liters of fuel, depending on the modification.
"Tingo" is based on a front-wheel drive platform, on which a power plant is installed in the transverse plane and a steel body of a supporting structure. The suspension of the Russian-Chinese all-terrain vehicle is completely independent: a circuit with McPherson struts is mounted in front, and a multi-link architecture in the back.
The car uses a rack and pinion steering system, supplemented by a hydraulic booster, and all its wheels accommodate disc brakes (ventilated on the front axle) with ABS and EBD.
Options and prices. The Russian secondary market offers a large number of used copies of Vortex Tingo, for which in 2016 they ask from 200 thousand rubles (the most “fresh” and richly equipped cars already cost more than 500 thousand rubles).
The basic configuration of the crossover includes: two airbags, fog lights, air conditioning, power steering, ABS, heated front seats, regular "music" with four speakers, four power windows and 16-inch alloy wheels. Well, the "top" modification differs only in the presence of a sunroof.
Vortex Tingo has been produced by the TagAZ concern since October 2010. The "ideological inspiration" of the model was the Chinese urban crossover Chery Tiggo. Actually, this is a slightly altered Tiggo of the Russian assembly. You can call it a marketing ploy, a rebranding, since trust in the auto industry of the Celestial Empire has not yet matured in the minds of Russians.
Tingo - a typical urban crossover at an affordable price
Why Vortex Tingo is valued
Russian cars, no matter how scolded in the circles of motorists, are in demand. The decisive factors when buying a domestic car were and are: relative affordability, ease of search and interchangeability of spare parts, trouble-free repairs in almost any service (and sometimes in the garage, “on the knee”!). The inoffensive nickname "Russian Chinese" has been assigned to Vortex brand cars, as the company specializes in licensed copies of Cherry. Considering the relatively recent appearance of the Tingo SUV on the market, we can confidently say that he has found his place.
Restyling: what has changed
In the summer of 2012, a restyled version of the Vortex Tingo was released. The updated crossover has become even more reminiscent of the previous version of the Japanese Toyota Rav4. However, given that Chinese designers worked on the look, one should forgive them for this “similarity”. After all, since the invention of gunpowder, in China they prefer copying the creation of the original! Although, they say, gunpowder is not quite Chinese! Initially, the car captivates with the fact that even in the basic configuration, the options package included extended power accessories and air conditioning. A rare representative of the domestic automotive industry can boast of the same. In the restyled Tingo, luxury notes are now clearly manifested, both in appearance and in the interior. The optics with LEDs and the shape of the headlights are quite in the Japanese spirit.
The chrome of the internal moldings of the radiator grill evokes the idea of solidity and wealth, typical for cars, for example, in the UAE! More stylish and ergonomic looks like a cover that covers the "reserve". The hood looks more embossed due to clearly stamped lines.
Vortex Tingo: interior photo
Restyling inside Tingo touched on the finish - the materials are pretty decent, there are no extraneous sounds: rattle, extra clicks. And, as drivers note, there is no unpleasant chemical odor in the cabin, which is often “sinned” by budget car manufacturers, especially those of Chinese origin. The center console has become narrower and, as it were, nobler than its predecessor due to the framing with quite nice plastic. A chrome rim appeared on the regulators of the stove and air conditioner (they are still spinning round knobs). The illumination of the on-board computer on the dashboard allows the driver to clearly see the readings of all sensors. The rear-view mirror inside the cabin was equipped with electronic “assistants”: a compass, a barometer and an altimeter. Very convenient for travel lovers and just curious! The radio tape recorder remained the same as before restyling: you can listen to CD, radio, there is also a USB connector.
6 directions of adjustment of the driver's seat allow you to choose the most comfortable position. There is enough space for passengers in the back. The seats fold down if needed. The maximum luggage compartment will be almost 800 liters! And the minimum (if you do not crowd the rear passengers!) Is more than 420 liters. For small things niches are provided in the side doors. Well, the glove box, of course.
Price Vortex Tingo
Technical characteristics remained the same: V engine 1.8l, front-wheel drive. However, Tingo did not claim the title of "super-powerful beast", and is unlikely to be. He has a different niche, different goals and objectives.
Models currently available Comfort (MT4);Lux (MT5); Comfort (AT6). The price range is from 559,000 rubles to 615,000 (from minimum to maximum).
Used Vortex Tingo on the market ranges from 350,000 to 500,000 rubles. Depends on year, mileage, configuration. As you can see, the car loses in price decently, but not catastrophically, given the manufacturer.
Test drive Vortex Tingo (+ video)
A test drive of the Vortex Tingo in conditions typical of its operation (the car, we recall, an URBAN crossover) shows sufficient dynamics for a 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, a confident set of speed. However, the “dexterity” of the gas pedal, which is quite sensitive at first, is noticeably lost when the speed goes off scale beyond 100 km / h. Acceleration to "weave" occurs in 14 seconds. The maximum speed is approximately 175 km / h: on the track you should remember not to “hack” with more powerful brothers! 1.8 liters make themselves felt, whatever one may say.
The five-speed "mechanics" provides obedience to the wheels, demonstrates good grip. But still, it does not cause supernatural emotions. Although, when compared with the “robotic” counterpart, I am glad that, unlike him, the manual transmission does not “think” when you need to quickly start off at the green light of a traffic light.
Depreciation, despite the use of MacPherson technology on the front struts and the strengthening of the rear suspension with hydraulics, leaves much to be desired. The driver and passengers feel the roughness of the road literally with their whole body. Also, when hitting small bumps and pits, the steering wheel vibrates slightly: not the most pleasant feeling for the driver. 19-centimeter clearance (clearance) will allow you to call on curbs and other small hills. This creates a privileged position when parking in places inaccessible to passenger cars. But you should not experience obvious off-road with Tingo: with front-wheel drive, this does not lead to anything good. And it is not positioned as an SUV in any way.
However, a one-time test drive is unlikely to say more than the reviews of drivers who operate their "iron horse" day after day. They have studied the advantages and disadvantages of Tingo in practice and share information with those who still doubt the choice. They also give (or ask) advice on solving certain problems from their "brothers in Tingo".
Owner reviews Vortex Tingo
Nikolai, Belgorod region
Vortex bought in 2011, in the summer. Mileage today for 50,000 km. I operate all year round. However, the winter in our area (Belgorod) is not too severe! I took the car as a "workhorse". The trunk justified itself for all 100. I transported all kinds of building materials, we go on a family trip to the sea for 2 summers in a row: I put the Thule trunk on the rails, which is not included in the main trunk and the salon goes with us there! From the global one: I replaced the fuel pipe (I tore my own one on fallen branches), I installed the protection myself. On trifles: a year later I replaced the lamps in tumankah. Recently one dimension. There are no problems with spare parts in the city: either they are available. Or no more than 3 days under the order. Many complain about the rather weak "Shumka", I somehow do not pay attention. Once again I say: the car is working + family. I appreciated the car, the restyled one, of course, became even more beautiful, if I change it, then for it. I can't buy better for that kind of money.
Alexey, Kolomna
More than satisfied with the high landing, spaciousness in the cabin (he and his wife are not small + we carry the Labrador to the country and back!). The trunk for the dog has become just "home!" And despite the fact that I roll the driver's seat all the way, there is plenty of room for my teenage son (also not a midget!) The equipment is the simplest (I have MT1), while the car has ABS, 2 airbags, air conditioning (!!!), heated front seats, heated and adjusted side mirrors, power windows (4 !!!), auto-locking doors, fog lights, casting! What car "in the database" is ready to offer this?! Yes, even for only "half a million"! Handling is quite on the level, there were no drifts, it smoothly enters the turn. I put on Velcro for the winter, but I think for Siberia this will not be an option. Of the minuses, I note: the doors were poorly regulated (silicone to help!), And the sound insulation leaves much to be desired.
Dmitry, Magnitogorsk
Bought in August 2012, from the salon. Restyle. Appearance like both inside and out. Outraged expensive MOT. On the 1st they took 6, the 2nd costs 10 tr. , refused immediately. Moreover, the similarity-collapse was not included in the MOT. And you need to do it, that is, for your money! Posted 1.5 tr. In frosts, problems with candles loomed, they began to troit. Such a thing helped for a short time: it started, waited for the engine to warm up, turned it off, started it again. But still changed, away from sin. Also, at -30, the camshaft oil seal leaked, I didn’t change it with the officials, it’s expensive, I changed it in a regular service for 2 tr. (against 7 official ones!). Knowledgeable people advised to move the steering wheel slightly when you warm up the car in the cold. Because the oil seals on the steering rack are also a weak point. The doors were adjusted at the 1st MOT, they have been a weak point for Tingo, and remain. Well, there is no noise. I did it myself, at the service. Now I want to order "koyabovsky" rear racks to increase the load capacity. The one that is (about 350 kg) does not suit. In general, for such a price, you can’t buy something better in this class since new. So, all the problems that exist are expected and completely solvable.
Sergey
The machine is economical. Before that, I went to Tahoe, so you understand that heaven and earth! Well, patency to compare, of course, I will not! It's not a jeep. I wouldn't even call it a "sneaker". Rather, a raised station wagon. I took the mechanics, unpleasant memories of the robot (my wife rode the Auris for 2 years, we suffered!). The capacity is quite satisfactory. A refrigerator was transported in the trunk with the seats folded down. As for soundproofing, for such money, what kind of “shumka” can we talk about? The gas pedal is electronic, it does not bother me. It listens perfectly, just “sink” it, and fire! Visibility is excellent. Again, remembering the Auris, where because of the racks you can not see a pedestrian or a car from around the corner. On the track accelerated to 180 easily. I adjusted the doors myself, TagAZ didn’t get away from this problem, just like Cherry itself. In general, I give Tingo a solid "four".
conclusions
Analyzing all of the above, we come to the conclusion that the car Vortex Tingo, of course, is not without flaws. But there are quite a few drivers who are satisfied with the car. Moreover, the decisive factor was and remains the price. "Odnoklassniki" Tingo more venerable manufacturers, no matter how you compare, come out more expensive. A typical middle-class car, ready to meekly drive around the city, to the country house, to a picnic (if the driver does not abuse off-road). Too nervous and impressionable is not recommended, due to unimportant sound insulation! If you have enough composure, the problem with closing the doors should not stop. In general, the car lives up to expectations and the price-quality balance is quite expected. Disadvantages can always be found even in a “premium class” car. So the decision is up to you. And only to you!
One of the secrets of the popularity of this Chinese car is a clear resemblance to the second-generation Japanese crossover Toyota RAV-4. Obviously, this is exactly what the Chinese were trying to achieve when developing this car: a potential buyer, looking at the Chery Tiggo, will remember the Japanese counterpart and will definitely buy it. And judging by the number of cars of this brand running on the roads of the world, this oriental trick works well. To distinguish externally a Chinese crossover from a Japanese one is not an easy task. Same profile, same dimensions. Only a powerful hood that goes over the radiator grille, head optics, and even a few minor details distinguish the Tiggo from the RAV-4. The build quality is top notch: the gaps between the body parts are even, although quite wide. Inside, the Tiggo is also very similar to the RAV-4, although it is significantly inferior to it in terms of the quality of finishing materials.
For a long time, Chery Tiggo was supplied to Russia exclusively with front-wheel drive, and only at the end of 2009 did instances appear equipped with a viscous coupling that connects the rear wheels when the front wheels slip. In addition, the owners of this car were forced to shift gears manually, only at the end of 2008 a version with a four-zone “automatic” appeared.
The most popular engines for Chery Tiggo were (and still are) four-cylinder petrol units with 125 and 129 hp. volume of 2 and 2.4 liters, respectively. The ever-increasing popularity of the model in our country forced Chinese automakers to organize the assembly of this crossover, first in Kaliningrad and then in Taganrog.
The Taganrog Automobile Plant was founded in 1998 in the year of the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the city. Over the past years, the plant has changed several partners, and today cars under the BYD and Hyundai brands are produced on its territory. The plant owns Tagaz and Vortex brands.
Releasing a copy of the Chinese crossover Chery Tiggo, the plant engineers hatched plans for the modernization of this car for about a year. The result of this work was presented at the Beijing Motor Show in the spring of 2012.
The changes affected almost the entire car. In appearance, this is, first of all, the front part, where a new, more elegant radiator grille has appeared, and the headlights, having decreased in size, have acquired a more complex geometric shape. Thanks to this, the image of Vortex Tingo has acquired a more rigorous and finished look. The rear part, after restyling, has got a new bumper and additional brake lights at the bottom. The car has grown in size by 10.5 cm and looks fresh and original. Tagaz Vortex Tingo is available in a wide range of colors. All colors come from the metallic series. These are red, black, blue, green, white, "silver". The factory gives an impressive guarantee for the body - 5 years or 500 thousand kilometers, whichever comes first. Tagaz Vortex Tingo cars are offered with a wide range of additional equipment: nickel-plated "kenguryatnik", metal thresholds, engine crankcase protection.
The interior of the updated Tingo is also different from the Chery Tiggo. A stylish multifunctional steering wheel, a new instrument panel with a large square LCD screen in the middle, larger front seat cushions with more pronounced support - this is just a small list of updates. The finishing materials have improved, a more modern power window control unit has appeared on the driver's door, the radio control keys, the air conditioner “twists” have acquired clear moves, and the interior sound insulation has improved. Build quality is good, but still far from flawless. Frequent burrs on plastic panels, uneven gaps between parts.
Options and prices for the updated Tagaz Vortex Tingo 2013 in Russia
The technical characteristics of the Tagaz Vortex Tingo have so far remained the same: under the hood is a 1.8-liter gasoline engine with 132 hp. The undoubted advantage of this engine is the fuel used - AI 92. Consumption is also not high, on average, in the combined cycle, Tingo consumes about 9.2 liters per hundred kilometers.
The number of configurations has also remained unchanged, there are still three of them. Two versions - MT1 Comfort and MT2 Lux come with a five-speed manual transmission, the third - with a robotic five-speed "automatic".
Previously, the automotive world was delightfully clear and unambiguous. What qualities were considered in the first place when choosing. A trio of acceleration, power and top speed. Whoever has the “fattest” engine was given preference. Today everything is much more complicated. People have learned to count their money. Now, when choosing, first of all, environmental friendliness, economy, safety and, of course, the cost of the car are considered. Yes, Tagaz Vortex Tingo may deserve some reproaches: not too modern, and imperfectly assembled ... But the low price fully justifies the quality of this car, and most likely this factor will have a significant impact in favor of this crossover.
The automobile plant in Taganrog, in agreement with the Chinese concern Chery, successfully produces the local SUV TagAZ Vortex Tingo, which is very similar to the Chery Tiggo. This practical machine is dynamic and perfect for moving around in any conditions: both in the city and. TagAZ Vortex Tingo is a car with attractive design, laconic modern interior and good equipment. The first thing you notice when looking at this crossover is a large number of options: power windows, heated mirrors, airbags, air conditioning, leather interior and much more. And all this for only half a million rubles.
Appearance TagAZ Vortex Tingo
The new SUV was introduced in 2012. In Beijing, all motorists could see the new creation of the Taganrog Automobile Plant, which had previously assembled the famous Chinese SUV Chery Tiggo. TagAZ Vortex Tingo got a new look and interior, but there are no discoveries in the technical specifications - a familiar front-wheel drive with a 1.8-liter engine.
Exterior TagAZ Vortex Tingo
Most of the changes TagAZ Vortex Tingo touched the front of the car. The headlights have become smaller, and their complex geometric shape has made the image concise and strict. All configurations, except for the basic one, are equipped with LED strips in the front lighting equipment. The radiator grille has also been shrunk, with a chrome-plated bowl-shaped insert, and inside it is the V - Vortex logo.
It stands out due to embossed lines and stampings, trimmed from below. Round fog lamps are located on contrasting black inserts. A powerful two-level air intake looks no less stylish on the bumper. Embossed waves can be seen on the sloping hood.
External lines and proportions are familiar from Chery Tiggo: a high and even roofline, a classic body, extended wheel arches, a neat stern. New bumper on the back. The lower additional brake lights are made in a rectangular shape, their large size provides better information content, the upper “stop” repeater is located immediately above the glass of the fifth door in a neat spoiler. Plus, there are LED lighting fixtures. All this significantly refreshed the body of the Vortex Tingo and made the car more stylish.
Tagaz Vortex Tingo is offered in a variety of colors. All shades from the metallic series - blue, red, green, white, silver, black. The car can be equipped with additional equipment: engine crankcase protection, metal thresholds, nickel-plated "kenguryatnik".
Tagaz Vortex Tingo Interior
Reviewing the TagAZ Vortex Tingo, how not to mention the interior design of the crossover? And this is a digital LCD display with a nice-looking backlight, a multifunctional steering wheel, a center console made in a strict form, which stands out with a spectacular metal-like edging. The control buttons are large and convenient, each door has a container for a plastic bottle.
The front row seats of the correct anatomical shape have enlarged pillows, reliable lateral support. In TagAZ Vortex Tingo, everything looks elegant and appropriate: the level of assembly and interior equipment, finishing materials, chrome inserts on the center console and steering wheel.
Video review of the TagAZ Vortex Tingo crossover in the Autodrom program:
Tingo's visibility is provided by: excellent landing height, impressive rear-view mirrors. These parameters are much better than most sedans. Salon for five seats, comfortable chairs, large and roomy luggage compartment. It is convenient to get into the jeep due to the wide doors. Roof rails allow you to securely fix the load. All vehicle controls are located conveniently and intuitively. Of particular interest is the luxury version of the Vortex, which has everything a modern SUV should have.
Filling TagAZ Vortex Tingo
The technical characteristics of the TagAZ Vortex Tingo have not changed much. This is a 1.8-liter gasoline engine that has a power of 132 horsepower.. The advantage of this unit is AI-92 fuel. Its consumption cannot be called large: for a hundred kilometers, Tingo burns about 9.2 liters.
The machine is controlled literally with one finger. The quality of Tingo is not inferior to the cars of the leading European manufacturers. All characteristics are adapted for Russian conditions, which is not surprising - the crossover is produced in Russia. Independent suspension, complemented by an anti-roll bar, provides good traction. Braking is provided by a hydraulic system and a powerful vacuum booster. It works silently.
Despite the presence of only front-wheel drive, TagAZ Vortex Tingo has good cross-country ability. A test drive of TagAZ Vortex Tingo showed that high ground clearance makes it easy to drive through difficult sections of the road, overcome obstacles and curbs.
| Car model: | Tagaz Vortex Tingo |
| Manufacturer country: | Russia |
| body type: | SUV |
| Number of places: | 5 |
| Number of doors: | 5 |
| Engine capacity, cu. cm: | 1845 |
| Power, l. s./about. min.: | 132/5750 |
| Maximum speed, km/h: | 175 |
| Acceleration to 100 km/h, s: | 14 |
| Type of drive: | front |
| Checkpoint: | 5MKPP |
| Fuel type: | gasoline AI-92 |
| Consumption per 100 km: | city 9.2; track 7.5 |
| Length, mm: | 4390 |
| Width, mm: | 1765 |
| Height, mm: | 1705 |
| Clearance, mm: | 190 |
| Tire size: | 215/65R16 |
| Curb weight, kg: | 1465 |
| Gross weight, kg: | 1775 |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 55 |
Configuration TagAZ Vortex Tingo
TagAZ Vortex Tinogo is offered in three trim levels:
- Comfort with a manual transmission in five gears. Car enthusiasts will appreciate ABS, front airbags (2 pieces), a multifunctional LCD display, heated front seats, power accessories for side mirrors, air conditioning, fog lights, power windows, central locking with an immobilizer, a multifunctional steering wheel and a high-quality audio system.
- Lux in terms of engine and transmission repeats the basic equipment, a sunroof and rear parking sensors are added from the equipment.
- Comfort with a robotic five-speed "automatic".
The price of TagAZ Vortex Tingo depends on the configuration and starts from 560,000 rubles. For the most advanced, you will have to pay 620,000 rubles.
TagAZ Vortex Tingo - advantages and disadvantages
Tagaz Vortex Tingo caused a mixed reaction among Russian motorists. Some call it, others criticize it mercilessly. Of course, Tingo has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of TagAZ Vortex Tingo:
- capacity - an excellent trunk, if necessary, the rear seats fold down, after which the volume of the luggage compartment expands to 1365 liters;
- good engine;
- comfortable seats equipped with lateral support;
- good clearance;
- even in the initial configuration there is a lot of electronics;
- two airbags;
- high-quality audio system;
- outer modern look.
Minuses:
- doors don't close well
- low sound insulation;
- weak engine;
- poor quality plastic
In general, TagAZ Vortex Tingo is a good car with relatively low fuel consumption for trips around the city and on a country road.
Video on how to start the TagAZ Vortex Tingo engine at -20 degrees:
Summary: perhaps the Tagaz Vortex Tingo is a bit of a bummer, as it's not a very modern or perfectly built car. But the price justifies all its qualities. TagAZ Vortex Tingo is a real whirlwind that blew up the SUV market. For its cost, the jeep is practically the best option among its competitors. This modern domestic crossover combines a stylish appearance with the power of an SUV and a high level of comfort.
If you are the owner of Tagaz Vortex Tingo, don't forget to leave your review. Your opinion is very important for us and our visitors.
